Adding mulch to your landscaping comes with a number of attractive benefits. To maximize those benefits, you have to use the right type of mulch for each specific application.

Mulch improves not only the aesthetics of your home’s exterior, but it aids in weed suppression, moderates the soil temperature, and helps the soil retain moisture. Certain mulches enrich the soil with essential nutrients as well. Some types are used for landscaping plants, while others are intended for the garden. Find out what you need to know to pick the best mulch for different purposes.

Organic or Inorganic?

Mulches can be divided into two broad categories: organic and inorganic. Both are spread out on the ground around plants and landscaping, but there are some significant differences between them.

Organic mulches, like wood chips, leaves, and straw, break down over time and introduce nutrients into the soil as they do. They improve soil quality for healthier and more robust plant growth. You can use organic mulches just about anywhere in your landscaping. However, organic mulch does eventually need to be replaced, as too much decomposition hinders its functionality. Different organic mulches last anywhere from one to six years.

Inorganic mulches, like stone, don’t introduce nutrients to the soil and are typically used for more decorative purposes rather than for helping plants grow. However, they are also just as effective as organic mulches for controlling weed growth.

Common Mulch Types

Here is a look at some of the most common types of mulch to consider when making your selection.

• Wood chips: Available in a range of colours, wood chips break down slowly and are a great choice to use around trees and shrubs. They are easy to apply and maintain, they offer good insulation during the summer and winter, and they allow for good water and oxygen penetration. Wood chips are also among the most affordable mulch types.
• Leaves: Full of rustic and natural charm, leaves provide excellent soil insulation over the summer and winter. Though they slow down air and water penetration somewhat, they provide excellent nutrients for the soil as they decompose. Leaves also offer easy application and simple maintenance.
• Straw: Using straw is a great way to add a nice bright touch to your landscaping. It is an excellent choice for air and water penetration, it is very easy to apply, and it provides plenty of nutrients as it breaks down. Straw is also a fantastic insulator and one of your best options for winter protection.
• Stone: Though not for use in annual gardens, stone makes a decorative addition around permanent plants like shrubs and trees. It is also a great choice for succulents and cacti. Stone has a fair insulating value and allows for the free movement of water and oxygen. It is relatively easy to maintain, though leaves should be regularly removed to prevent the growth of weeds.

Picking the right mulch is simple once you know what you need it for and what you want to get out of it. Create a good overall landscaping plan, and you’ll have an easier time choosing mulch for different areas of your yard.